The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented a significant new policy, prohibiting the import of new drones manufactured in foreign countries into the United States. This sweeping measure, announced Monday, adds foreign-made uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and their critical components to the FCC’s “Covered List,” deeming them to pose “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States and to the safety and security of U.S. persons.” The ban specifically targets products like those from Chinese manufacturer DJI, a dominant player in the global drone market, unless explicitly recommended by the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security.

The decision solidifies the FCC’s proactive stance against potential threats from foreign technology. Inclusion on the Covered List signifies that these drones are considered communications equipment posing a significant risk, aligning them with previous restrictions on other foreign tech entities. The FCC detailed that this prohibition applies broadly to both finished drones and essential parts, ensuring a comprehensive block on new foreign-sourced drone technology entering the US market without specific federal agency endorsement. This regulatory framework aims to safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure from potential exploitation.

DJI, the world’s largest drone manufacturer, expressed its disappointment following the FCC’s announcement. Adam Welsh, DJI’s head of global policy, stated that while the company was not “singled out” in the official decree, no specific information was released regarding the data or intelligence used by the Executive Branch to reach its determination. Despite the ban on new imports, Welsh affirmed DJI’s continued commitment to the U.S. market, clarifying that existing DJI products already in operation within the country are unaffected by the new regulations and can continue to be used as usual by consumers and businesses.

The expansion of the Covered List to include foreign-made drones is consistent with previous actions taken by the FCC to mitigate national security risks associated with foreign technology. Notably, the list already features Kaspersky anti-virus software, which was added in 2024 due to similar concerns regarding data security and potential state influence. Earlier additions in 2021 included telecommunications equipment from major Chinese firms Huawei and ZTE, reflecting a broader governmental strategy to reduce reliance on technologies from countries deemed to pose geopolitical or cybersecurity threats. This pattern indicates a systemic effort to secure US digital infrastructure.

The FCC’s action stems from a National Security Determination issued on December 21st by an undisclosed interagency body. This determination highlighted that uncrewed aircraft systems and critical components produced in certain foreign countries could “enable persistent surveillance, data exfiltration, and destructive operations over U.S. territory.” Furthermore, the assessment emphasized that “U.S. cybersecurity and critical-infrastructure guidance has repeatedly highlighted how foreign-manufactured UAS can be used to harvest sensitive data, used to enable remote unauthorized access, or disabled at will via software updates.” These concerns underscore the perceived vulnerability of relying on foreign technology for sensitive applications.

For current drone owners in the United States, the FCC’s fact sheet provides clarity: individuals who already possess drones manufactured outside the US are still permitted to operate them without restriction. The ban primarily targets future imports and sales of new devices. Additionally, the new regulations include a provision for the potential removal of drones or drone components from the Covered List. This could occur if the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security makes a “specific determination to the FCC” that a particular product no longer poses unacceptable risks, offering a potential, albeit narrow, pathway for reconsideration.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr underscored the dual nature of uncrewed aircraft systems, acknowledging their significant potential for enhancing public safety and cementing America’s leadership in global innovation. While the ban addresses critical security concerns, it also implicitly challenges the US drone industry to innovate and develop domestic alternatives that can meet both commercial and governmental needs without compromising national security. This regulatory shift could stimulate growth in American drone manufacturing and technology, fostering a more secure and resilient supply chain for this rapidly evolving sector. The move reflects a broader strategic imperative to balance technological advancement with robust national defense.

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Keywords: FCC drone ban, Foreign drone imports, National security risks, DJI drones US, Covered List FCC, Uncrewed aircraft systems, US drone policy, Critical infrastructure security